Crime Prevention:
Don't Invite Theft! A Guide to Business Security

Pamphlets

If you own or manage a business, the fear of a burglary, a robbery or a major shoplifting loss is
probably never far from your mind.

Most often these are crimes of opportunity. They happen because the criminal spots an easy chance
and takes it. So make it tough on him or her. Here's how.

Burglary

Odds are, if you are careless, the burglars will hit your business sooner or later-so practice good
security.

Doors and windows

Use deadbolt locks on all exterior doors. Those with glass should have double cylinder deadbolts.

Make sure you check all doors and windows each day, before closing.

Develop a system of key security. Make sure all keys issued are signed for and turned in when
an employee leaves the company. You may even want to change locks and combinations.

Do not identify with what they're used for. If necessary, use a coding system.

If you have doors with outside hinges, use non-removable hinge pins. Install panel doors lined
with metal to resist drilling.

Doors and windows on the sides and rear of a building are often inviting to the burglar because
they offer concealment. Steel reinforcing bars on doors and gratings or bars on windows offer good
security.

Every exterior opening offers a potential point of entry. Do not overlook security at places
like fire escapes, skylights, roof openings, air ducts, doorway transoms, loading docks, sidewalk
and basement openings.

Before you leave, check all potential hiding places, like bathrooms, closets and storage areas.
The last thing you want to do is to lock a burglar inside.

Using lights

Light up all entrances with vandal-proof fixtures. Burglars like a nice dark place in which to
work.

Keep some lights on inside, and place them near the rear so that an intruder's silhouette can
be seen from the street.

Alarm systems

Install a good alarm system and have it checked regularly.

Make sure it is wired to go off at all potential points of entry, including doors, windows, roof
openings, loading docks and vents.

Your cash

Keep as little cash around as possible. Make bank deposits frequently, but, irregularly so as
not to establish a discernible pattern.

Securely anchor your safe in a highly visible, well-lit location.

Empty your cash drawers and leave them open after hours.

Keep the premises visible from the street; avoid blocking the interior view with high window
displays and/or advertisements on windows.

Make sure trees and shrubs around entranceways are trimmed.

Don't leave ladders or tools lying around that a burglar could use to help him break in.

Some additional tips

If a burglar does get in, don't make it easy for him/her to remove items. Bolt racks to the floor,
alternate hangers on the rack, and lock small valuables in cabinets.

If you discover a break-in, call the police immediately. Don't enter the premises until police
arrive. The thief may still be inside, or you may disturb evidence.

Robbery

Facing an armed robber is a frightening and dangerous experience. Most robbers carry weapons and
are likely to use them if provoked or frightened.

Be calm

Your own personal safety and that of your employees and customers is most important. If confronted
by an armed robber, stay calm and cooperate. Do not risk physical harm.

Be observant

A good description will be vital to police, so try to remember everything you can about the robber.

color of hair/cut

complexion

height

age

weight

eyes/eyeglasses

scars/marks/ tattoos

speech/ accent/lisp

beard/mustache/sideburns

shirt

coat/ jacket

trousers

shoes

vehicle /color/make

vehicle license number

direction of escape

weapon

right/left handed

Don't compare notes with other witnesses. It's easy to become confused.

Be cautious

Try not to work alone, but if you must, leave a radio playing in a back room to create the impression
that someone else is there.

If possible, arrange counters so that customers face the street in full view of people passing
by.

Avoid turning your back on customers to answer the phone or handle paperwork.

Keep some “bait money” in the cash drawer; record dates and serial numbers of bills so they can
be traced by the police

Shoplifting

Shoplifters can be pretty sharp, and if you’re not careful the quantities taken will have a critical
economic impact on your business. Do not take anything for granted. Even the most innocent-looking
customer could be a shoplifter. They come in all ages and from every social group.

Watch for them:

Train your personnel to spot shoplifters and make sure they are always on the lookout.

If possible, greet each person that enters your business and maintain eye contact so they will
know you are aware of their presence.

Pay particular attention to fitting rooms and other isolated areas.

Physical arrangements

The way you arrange counters and displays can deter shoplifters:

Put displays in full view of all employees.

Lock anything small, that can be easily slipped into a pocket or handbag, in counter cases, when
possible.

Keep expensive items away from entrances.

Prosecute

Shoplifters must know that you mean business, so decide on a policy of prosecuting offenders,
follow through with it and then advertise you have done so.

Employee theft

Many businesses suffer substantial losses each year from employee theft. Make sure this doesn’t
happen to you:

When hiring, thoroughly check all references.

Do not tempt employees by having careless security or overlooking losses.

Information on the NYSP website is presented as a community service. Reproductions of information
or images taken from the NYSP website must be used for the sole purpose of supplying information
as a non-reimbursable, community service. The rules and regulations of the State Police are contained in Title 9 (Executive
Department), Subtitle K of the state compilation and can be accessed through
the Department of State website. If you are unable to download a PDF document on this site,
you may request a copy by e-mailing the Planning
and Research Section. Please state which document you would like and supply your name, address
and phone number.